Guide to Residency in Albania

Obtaining a residency visa in Albania is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Albania gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research the types of residency permits available
  • Visit the official website of the Albanian Ministry of Interior or the Albanian State Police to understand the different types of residency permits, such as work, study, family reunification, etc.
  • Choose the type of residency permit that best suits your situation and intentions in Albania.
• Prepare the necessary documentation
  • Gather personal documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and any other identification documents.
  • Obtain a criminal record certificate from your home country or any other country where you have resided for more than six months in the last five years.
  • Prepare proof of health insurance that is valid in Albania.
  • Ensure you have proof of accommodation in Albania, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents.
  • Prepare proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Albania.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the nearest tax office in Albania or check the General Directorate of Taxation website for information on applying for a tax number (NIPT).
  • Fill out the application form for a tax number, which may require personal information and details about your stay in Albania.
  • Submit the application form along with any required documents, such as your passport and proof of address in Albania.
• Enter Albania legally
  • Ensure you have a valid visa if required for your nationality. Check the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for visa requirements.
  • Upon arrival, make sure to get an entry stamp in your passport.
• Apply for the residency permit
  • Visit the local Directorate for Border and Migration in the region where you intend to reside.
  • Complete the residency permit application form, which can be obtained from the Directorate for Border and Migration office.
  • Submit the application form along with all the prepared documents, including your tax number, proof of health insurance, and proof of financial means.
  • Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of residency permit.
• Attend the interview and biometric data collection
  • After submitting your application, you will be scheduled for an interview at the local Directorate for Border and Migration.
  • During the interview, you may be asked about your reasons for moving to Albania and your plans during your stay.
  • Your biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, will be collected for identification purposes.
• Wait for the decision
  • After the interview, your application will be processed, which may take several weeks or months.
  • You can check the status of your application by contacting the Directorate for Border and Migration where you applied.
• Collect your residency permit
  • If your application is approved, you will be notified to collect your residency permit from the Directorate for Border and Migration.
  • Make sure to check the validity of your residency permit and the conditions attached to it, such as the right to work or study.
• Register your place of residence
  • Within 30 days of receiving your residency permit, you must register your place of residence at the local civil status office.
  • Provide the required documents, such as your residency permit and proof of accommodation, to complete the registration process.
• Maintain and renew your residency status
  • Keep track of the expiration date of your residency permit and apply for renewal in advance, typically a few months before it expires.
  • Stay informed about any changes in Albanian immigration laws that may affect your residency status.

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the specific requirements and procedures may vary. It is important to consult the official Albanian immigration authorities or legal professionals for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Albania?

"In order to visit Albania, foreign nationals must obtain a visa before traveling. Those wishing to visit Albania must submit a valid travel document (such as a passport or identity card), as well as proof of sufficient fund maintenance and travel insurance when applying for the visa. The visa application must be submitted to the Albanian Consulate or Embassy in the applicant's country of residence prior to travel. Foreign nationals who wish to stay in Albania for more than 90 days must apply for residency. Applicants must submit the appropriate form at a local police office, as well as the following documents: proof of the purpose of their stay, a valid travel document and two color passport-size photos. Applicants may also need to provide proof of financial means and proof of health insurance. The application will be reviewed and approved by the local police office," commented one member living in Albania.